American Legion to host suicide prevention discussion

The American Legion is hosting a roundtable discussion on suicide prevention Thursday at the Legion's headquarters in Washington, D.C. The panel will include a coalition of military and veteran advocates.

Although the meeting is scheduled during Suicide Prevention Week, Sept. 8-14, eliminating these tragic deaths which have hit the veterans’ community hard has long been a priority of the nation’s largest veterans organization.

“An estimated 20 veterans a day take their own lives,” American Legion National Commander Bill Oxford said. “One is too many. Prevention begins by first removing the stigma associated with those who ask for help. We also must ensure that resources and access are plentiful and well-publicized to those who could use them. The American Legion is very committed to this and I know we have plenty of allies that could help us accomplish this important mission. We are happy to host this roundtable.”

Participants in the discussion will include suicide survivor Cliff Bauman; Dr. Howard and Jean Somers (parents of Daniel Somers, who died from suicide); and Dr. Mathew Miller, acting director of the VA Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. Dr. Heather Kelly, director of Military and Veterans Health Policy for the American Psychological Association, will moderate the discussion.

Preventing Suicide: Educate, Inspire Mobilize

September 12, 2-4 p.m. ET

7th Floor, 1608 K Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20006

A live stream will be available on The American Legion National Headquarters Facebook page.